Last Blast: San Diego Sizzles Saturday Before Cooldown, Risky Rip Currents

San Diego starts today partly cloudy and around 73 degrees, but the heat is about to make one last push. Temperatures are expected to rise to near 89 degrees this afternoon, with the coast closing out the heat wave before a noticeable cooldown arrives tomorrow.

Heat Advisory Runs Through Saturday Evening

The National Weather Service has a Heat Advisory in effect for San Diego County coastal areas until 8 PM today, with temperatures expected to reach 85 to 91 degrees. Residents should drink plenty of water, limit time in direct sun, use air conditioning when possible, and check on older adults, neighbors, and anyone especially vulnerable to heat illness.

Winds will remain generally light to moderate from the west and northwest, increasing to around 10 mph during the afternoon. Skies should stay sunny for most of the day after the morning clouds thin out, with no meaningful rain expected.

Cooler Temperatures Arrive Sunday

Today brings a much easier high near 82 degrees, followed by highs around 81 next Monday and 82 next Tuesday. The National Weather Service says the cooling trend will continue into the middle of next week, with daytime temperatures generally near the low 80s and somewhat better relief overnight.

Next Tuesday and Wednesday could bring more high clouds and a small chance of light precipitation as moisture from Tropical Storm Karina moves northward, though the storm itself is expected to remain well south of Southern California. The forecast currently favors mostly dry conditions, with rain chances staying low.

Fog Returns Overnight And Surf Builds

Patchy fog is expected along the coast tonight until tomorrow morning, mainly between 11 PM and 5 AM. Another round of overnight and morning fog is possible tomorrow night, while afternoons remain mostly sunny.

A south-southwest swell will also bring localized surf of 3 to 5 feet, with sets reaching 6 feet and a high rip-current risk at southwest-facing beaches, especially in northern San Diego County and Orange County. The National Weather Service advises beachgoers to take the rip-current risk seriously and check conditions before getting in the water.

People looking for an air-conditioned break can review the city’s designated cool-down locations, including public libraries and recreation facilities. Hours and availability can vary, so checking ahead is a good idea before heading out.